Aer Travel Pack 2 vs Mountainsmith Mayhem 45

So really great, versatile size. And so, as I was testing the South, the first bag that this made me think of was the larger version of the travel pac...

It seems people over 5’8 will want to choose the 45, and 5’8 and under will do better with the 35. If possible, head to a shop to try sizing if you are, like me, on the cusp between the two.

What I really don’t like is the shoulder straps. They are very uncomfortable. The side pockets are useless for holding water bottles. But I really hate the shoulder straps

I carry a MLC 45 for all my travel. It works great. I've never had an issue with not being able to take it on a plane and I can fit it in the overhead bin on a CRJ 200. It can carry a ton and its comfortable

This meant I could easily grab my xbox controller or a snack without having to hoist the bag up into my lap and open the whole thing. -Comfort: Its actually pretty comfortable to wear. I took a hike with this bag on (I know - probably not really what its designed for) - and it worked out perfect. The back is as padded/breathable as you could expect, and the front chest strap helped to keep the bag tight against my chest without all of the weight being squarely on my shoulders

From those larger heavier or sharper items, we do have a nice ridged foam back panel for some extra cushion and support, and it's kind of reduced in t...